This episode dives deep into the challenges and conditions dubbed 'Operator Syndrome' faced by veterans and active-duty members of the military, exploring both psychological and physical facets, including traumatic brain injury, PTSD, hormonal imbalances, low testosterone, existential issues, and more.  👀 Don't miss out! Check out our Combat Check-In for exclusive updates, fascinating historical snippets, and much more! Visit combatstory.com/newsletter. The episode features insights from Dr. Chris Frueh, a clinical psychologist with extensive experience treating thousands of veterans, on the complexity of these issues and the effects on individuals and their families. It also highlights the importance of a holistic approach to treatment, covering proper diet, sleep, medical care, and the support structures provided by organizations like the Warrior Health Foundation.    Additionally, it addresses the unique experiences of female operators and the broader implications of these syndromes across different nations and military roles.   Check out our interview with Derek Nadalini - former Delta Force operator featured in this video - at https://youtu.be/IjaGelOdV6U Special thanks to Mad Rabbit for sponsoring this video: For 25% off your order, head to MadRabbit.com/COMBATSTORY25 and use code COMBATSTORY25.   🎙️Find Chris Online:    🔗 Website https://chrisfrueh.com/    📘 Book Operator Syndrome https://www.amazon.com/Operator-Syndrome-PhD-Chris-Frueh/dp/1962202070    📖 White Paper https://chrisfrueh.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Frueh-et-al-2020-2.pdf    📸 Instagram: drchrisfrueh   🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:    🔗 Ryan’s Linktree:  https://linktr.ee/combatstory    🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combatstory/    📸 Instagram: @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory    📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial    📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus    🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle #veterans #operatorsyndrome #ptsd #specialoperations  ⏰ Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro 01:11 Unveiling Operator Syndrome with Dr. Chris Frueh 01:22 The Science Behind Operator Syndrome 02:01 Chris Frueh: A Life Dedicated to Veterans' Health 04:36 The Power of Music and Connection 06:20 Understanding Operator Syndrome: A Deep Dive 14:58 The Personal Journey of Dr. Chris Frueh 25:43 Insights into History of Suicide in Active Duty Military since the 1800s 36:27 Why do we call Operator Syndrome a Syndrome 42:18 What exactly is TBI (it's not what I expected) 50:36 The Hidden Impact of TBIs Beyond Physical Injuries 53:29 Diagnosing and Recognizing TBIs: Challenges and Approaches 55:04 The Signature Injury of Modern Warfare: Research and Realities 55:41 Innovations and Adjustments in Training to Mitigate TBI Risks 01:05:51 The Psychological and Existential Effects of Operator Syndrome 01:14:31 Addressing TBIs: Medical Insights and Personal Stories 01:15:31 The Global Perspective: Operator Syndrome in International Forces 01:16:42 Women in Combat w/ Operator Syndrome 01:24:56 Three Things to Change if You're Dealing with Operator Syndrome  01:29:56 Closing Thoughts and Listener Comments   What is Operator Syndrome?   From Chris' Research paper: We identified a consistent pattern of health-care difficulties within the special operation forces community that we and other special operation forces health-care providers have termed “Operator Syndrome.” This includes interrelated health and functional impairments including traumatic brain injury effects; endocrine dysfunction; sleep disturbance; obstructive sleep apnea; chronic joint/back pain, orthopedic problems, and headaches; substance abuse; depression and suicide; anger; worry, rumination, and stress reactivity; marital, family, and community dysfunction; problems with sexual hea